I'm a redeemed child of God and the momma to four vivacious daughters. I'm passionate about finding hidden blessings in the trials of life, living it out in an honest and open way, while encouraging those around me to believe in better.

write it, girl

Last week I was given permission challenged to write whatever was on my heart. And this week, I’ve decided to take the other half of the challenge … a declaration.

That I am in fact, a writer!

Did I just admit that aloud for all the blogosphere to hear? When it comes to something so deep and personal, why is it so hard to proclaim your craft? Fear. Yeah … pretty sure it’s fear.

When I was a photographer, I could rarely make the proclamation that “I’m a photographer.” For the longest time I described myself as a professional amateur … you know, somewhere between a beginner and the real deal.

But guess what? I’m declaring it today. I am a writer!

It’s with humble pride I declare, I’m honored to have the voice I’ve been given. It may not be as eloquent as hers. Or as funny as hers. Or as grace-filled as hers. And oh-how-I-love-the-way hers dance. But … it’s mine.

He gave it to me. And I’ll glorify Him with it. Every. chance. I. get.

I have some news up my sleeve I’ve been waiting to share … actually, a couple of things. And I think this post is the perfect time to spill the beans!

First, I’m putting together an ebook of my 31 Days of Faith posts … it should be ready by February and I’ll keep you posted on the progress!

Second … I’ve mentioned for a long while now that God’s stirring my heart to write my story. And that’s just what I’m doing. I’ve had some blips already … like lost 2 chapters I’ve written. Poof! Gone. But instead of being anxious and upset over it, I feel an incredible sense of calm and peace. At first I thought maybe it was a sign against what I thought I was being directed to do. Instead, I think it was an attack {from the enemy} to keep me from telling my story.

I don’t have all the details yet … I don’t have a publisher, and honestly, I’m not sure I want one. At this point, I plan to self-publish … both in print and with an ebook.

It’s scary. The process. Forming the words. On a screen. With a keyboard. I do all my best writing in my head. And then … sitting in front of a blank screen, the words don’t come. And when they do, they don’t sound as eloquent, funny, grace-filled, or twirly as I’d like.

And then I remember … I’m writing to an audience of One.

“… whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 {NLT}

And I will. I will do it all for His glory. What the enemy has intended for evil … I declare to you today … I will use it, my story, our story … for His glory.

You are a writer alright! Inspirational, faithful, honest and so good at putting it all down in writing. Well done for stepping out, declaring and doing. I look forward to seeing the results and reading about the process as you go.

AWESOME NEWS!!!! i’m so excited for you and this new adventure. seriously-SO! this is perfect. and congrats on your declaration too! i know what you mean, i have a hard time declaring that i’m a photographer as well. when people ask, i usually shrug it and say “well yeah it’s what i like to do.” and then i usually leave it at that…. but i don’t know why! cause, really, there’s nothing WRONG with me being a photographer and being content with it. i shouldn’t shy away from the label. i guess you’re right. totally boils down to fear gripping me. what if i declare it, and then somebody decides they don’t like my work and then accuses me of NOT being a photographer. yep. that’s what i fear. so…. i’ll work on that, k? and you stick to your declaration guns as well! i’ve got a feeling things are just gonna keep getting better. :)

(p.s. thought my shoots would slow down, since ordering Christmas cards, etc is not a quick process. however, i’ve had 4 more bookings this week for december! holy bats, tracie! this is the busiest shooting year i’ve had in the past 3 years total! it’s scary-cool.)

Your God given talent for writing and gift of creativity; inspires, uplifts, and encourages. You always give the Lord credit for the things, He is doing in your life. Your ability to communicate your innermost thoughts, with such clarity, feeling, and logic is unique and awesome. We, indeed are in fierce spiritual warfare. Your experiences, victories, and insights are going to do much, to rally the ‘troops’. What a strong warrior for Christ you are. I know He is very proud of you. I’m looking forward to seeing how Jesus is going to continue to annoint you, and lift you up into His destiny for you.

i believe in you. your heart is so beautiful and true… because of Him. in spite of the enemy. i believe that because He is your audience, He will guide you to it and through it… navigating every step thru that enemy territory! write on… i’ll start stocking up on tissues xoxo

Good for you Tracie! You have been wanting to do this for YEARS. No better time than the present to start. Follow your heart, and by the way, no duh you are a writer. Perhaps you are the last to know? :)

I LOVE your writing and have been hooked from the first time I read your blog…and over time it just gets better and better and more inspirational. Don’t ever doubt yourself. I know you are also humble, but don’t hold back on a talent you certainly were gifted with!

I am excited for you! I am linking up from “Write it, Girl” and I love your sweet voice. Yes, you ARE a writer! I so believe in writing for an audience of One. Amen! I look forward to hearing about your journey as you write your story.